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The latest AJ focuses on the work of Groupwork + Amin Taha including an interview with its founder, a full timeline of the practice’s work, and building studies of two mixed-use projects in Islington: the controversially stone-fronted 15 Clerkenwell Close and a residential/retail block at 168 Upper Street. PLUS Will architects cut down on concrete after a report says it is responsible for 8 per cent of global CO2 emissions; ...

[First look] Kyson has submitted this partially subterranean house for planning in the Fitzjohns Netherhall conservation area in Camden, north London

The 290m² three-bedroom family home will replace 11 unused garages behind Gothic villas on Fitzjohns Avenue.

The architect’s view

The proposed scheme takes the form of a discreet but elegantly detailed concrete box predominantly submerged beneath the ground. The living accommodation is a two-storey glazed insertion with a green roof that splits the volume, creating a series of courtyards of varying hierarchy; an entrance courtyard to receive guests, a primary courtyard for amenity and a private courtyard to the master suite that opens out onto a wooded area. This accommodation has been organised around the courtyards to maximise daylight and access to amenity space.

Kyson’s proposed sunken house in Camden - section of stair

A pair of oak staircases connects the upper storey, appearing to float between the bookcases and a towering concrete wall within a 6m double-height slot. A continuous gap between the ceiling and the concrete wall allows natural light to wash over the surfaces emphasising the solidity of the structure and allowing light to penetrate the family room.

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